The Most Romantic Cities In The US For A Couples Getaway, According To Travelers

They say that Paris is the "City of Love" and Venice is the "Bride of the Sea," and while these two cities are undeniably romantic, what if you're an American couple searching for some romance closer to home? You'll be happy to know that the U.S. is home to plenty of romantic cities ideal for a couples getaway. And these dreamy cities are scattered across the country, making it likely that there's a haven of romance just a short trip away. 

To narrow down our list of the most romantic cities in the U.S., we consulted various publications, both travel-focused and broader, like Business Insider and Timeout. We consulted local travel advisories, such as Go Visit Hawaii and Sedona.org, for relevant and timely data. We also took it to the people, using advice from sites like Reddit and opinions from travel bloggers. 

Although just six cities made the ultimate cut, these run the gamut from mountain towns to beachy oases, from bustling metropolises to cozier gems, from overlooked spots to the country's most iconic destinations. So grab your sweetie by the hand and head out to explore your backyard for guaranteed romance, without having to get out your passport at all. 

Foggy with coastal views, long history reflected in the architecture, cozy restaurants and fun activities ... that's San Francisco, and it's most definitely one of the most romantic cities in the U.S. (and maybe the world). In addition to hosting some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, like Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco also features miles of cinematic coastline, world-famous views from atop its iconic hills, and signature neighborhoods ripe for tailoring your vacation.

San Francisco provides endless opportunities for romance. Start off at Fisherman's Wharf, where you can spot the sea lions, sample clam chowder in a sourdough bowl, and play historic arcade games at the Musée Mécanique. Are you and your partner history buffs? Then ride the historic cable cars up the hills and visit the gorgeous Palace of Fine Arts, originally dating to 1915. For dinner, live your "Lady and the Tramp" fantasy by getting a pasta for two in North Beach (the city's Little Italy). For a nighttime excursion, book a sunset cruise with the Red and White Fleet where you can watch the sun set from the water with a drink in your hand and your darling on your arm.

While San Francisco can be romantic year-round, one local on Quora recommends a visit in the fall, noting: "In September the weather is perfect. It's sunny, with little fog. The temp is comfortable. Wine country is amazing...Selfies on the Golden Gate Bridge? What can be better?" Speaking of wine country, if you need a break from city life, head north for approximately 1 hour to sample world-class wine in Napa Valley, California's popular wine region full of scenic views (also an ideal place to visit in the autumn). 

The island chain of Hawaii is romantic just by virtue of being Hawaii. Yet among all this dreamy splendor, one city does stand out: Honolulu, Hawaii's stunning capital city. Honolulu is a favorite for couples in search of beaches with a dash of class. 

Located on Oahu, Hawaii's most budget-friendly island, Honolulu is easy to fly into. The city has a wide array of accommodations for every budget and style, from all-inclusive resorts to local inns. Unlike much of Hawaii, Honolulu isn't just about the beaches and nature (although those are certainly world-class). For one, it's home to the only true castle in the U.S., 'Iolani Palace, where Hawaiian monarchs once reigned from its ornate balconies. Elsewhere, explore what the city has to offer. Enhance the romance at an intimate restaurant offering classic Pacific Rim cuisine, or a reconnect with a couples massage at a spa. Combine both by staying at a resort like Halekulani, set on the picture-perfect Waikiki Beach (starting around $750/day).

Of course we can't forget those beaches and nature. Oahu is considered one of the most diverse of the Hawaiian islands, with one visitor reporting to Go Visit Hawaii: "Oahu has it all ... the nightlife, the shopping and people-watching ... a quick drive to the windward coast will offer you vistas to take your breath away. Oahu offers some of the best swimmable beaches." Head to Hanauma Bay (20 minutes from Honolulu), for some of the island's best snorkeling. If you're in need of a break from the beach, take a hike up the famous Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views (about 20 minutes from the capital). 

When it comes to the most beautiful cities in the U.S., Charleston, South Carolina is a given. As one Quora user commented, "It's not hard to see why Charleston is one of the most romantic cities in the US." Any couple looking for Southern charm with fairy tale vibes would be happy in this historic city, thanks to its cobbled streets, coastal views, leafy trees framing gorgeous houses, and signature Lowcountry cuisine.

While in Charleston, embrace the relaxed feel of the city with a trolley or carriage ride. Or wander with your own two feet, as "Charleston is best explored at a saunter" (via U.S. News & World Report). The streets are their own destination, with pastel facades and a new detail to discover around every corner. To make the most of your visit, stay in a lovely home-turned-inn in the Historic Quarter. The Elliott House Inn is a great place where they serve homemade breakfast in the courtyard. During the day, explore Charleston by checking out romantic gems like White Point Gardens, with iconic old oak trees and views of the water. Or tour some well-preserved mansions, such as the 19th-century Nathaniel Russell House, known for its impressive, three-story staircase. 

One of the highlights of Charleston is its food. Served with a side of Southern hospitality, the food here is characterized by comfort staples, local flavors, and the influence of the Gullah people from West Africa. Whether you're enjoying oysters and champagne by candelight at the Peninsula Grill or savoring cornbread at Husk, Charleston is a haven for foodie couples. Afterward, take a romantic stroll at twilight, just as the traditional gas street lamps alight.

The American Southwest is one of the world's best wellness destinations, and the star of the show is the mystical Sedona, Arizona. Not only is it near some of the most iconic Arizona landmarks, but it's also home to ancient holistic healing practices. The travel blog The Sophisticated Life explained that Sedona "has strong spiritual connections, with four vortexes believed to emit transformative energy nearby." Whether you and your partner believe in the mystical vortexes, you'll at least have the surrounding nature and famous wellness retreats to reconnect and rejuvenate. 

For budget-minded travelers, there are some lovely camping or glamping opportunities, from the tents-only Manzanita Campground ($30/night) to upscale cabins at the Tiny Camp Village (starting around $150/night). And then there are the luxury options, with one traveler saying on Reddit, "if you want to go fancy the resorts are insane." Shell out for a few nights at the glorious L'Auberge de Sedona (starting around $450/night), located along the picturesque Oak Creek. Take part in activities like daily meditation or explore the onsite spa, L'Apothecary. To up the romance, you can enjoy the "Reconnect" couples package, designed to renew your connection through aromatherapy, massage, and energy readings. 

When in Sedona, you have to experience the nature. Bookend your spa day with sunrise and sunset hikes to see the red rocks under different light. Airport Mesa is a hiking area ideal for sunrises, and Cathedral Rock is a a steep hike that rewards you with incredible sunset views. Once the world goes dark, grab a blanket (and your sweetie) for some stargazing, as Sedona is an official International Dark Sky Community. Take full advantage of these incredibly clear skies at Baldwin Trailhead, where you'll get the added bonus of seeing the stars circle Cathedral Rock.

The country's most famous city is also one of the best for couples, promising iconic romance year-round. While first-timers will want to check out some of New York City's top places, there are plenty of activities for seasoned travelers looking for romance, too. TimeOut notes that between "strolls in the West Village, skyline views from the Empire State Building or skating hand-in-hand under the stars at Rockefeller Center ... The city practically scripts your love story for you." Like New York City itself, the possibilities for a romantic getaway are endless — and endlessly customizable.

Central Park is a highlight for lovers, no matter the season, whether that's wandering through the autumnal foliage or picnicking on the spring grass. During April through November, rent a boat at the Central Park Boathouse for that iconic couple experience. One user on Quora says that if you row "under the Bow Bridge and reach the Belvedere Castle, it's almost as if you are in a fantasy of your own!" During the winter, strap on your skates to cruise below the city skyline at Wollman Rink. 

The rest of New York is brimming with cinematic moments, too. It may be cliché to take your sweetheart up to the top of the Empire State Building, but it's the best vantage point of the city and an adventure in itself. Find more memorable moments with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset, enjoying the stellar views, or take a sunset dinner cruise. You can also save some dollars without sacrificing romance by taking the free Staten Island Ferry, which cruises by the Statue of Liberty.  For a romantic evening, put on your best duds and catch a Broadway show, or enjoy a candlelit dinner at the River Café, featuring expansive skyline views.